A Poppy Appeal collection tin has been stolen from Headcorn railway station.

The appalling theft was discovered by staff coming to work at 5.30am this morning and comes just days before the county prepares to honour servicemen and women killed in conflict.

Susan Mangold, who works on the ticket kiosks, said the collection box is believed to have been taken sometime before the booking hall was closed late last night (November 8) or possibly early this morning.

The 51-year-old said: "We were always aware it is a bit vulnerable. Our customers are very generous and they tend to donate a large amount of money for the Poppy Appeal.

"We lost one two years ago on Remembrance Sunday. I am so upset that somebody could stoop so low to take it back then and now for it it to happen again.

"People gave a lot of their time up selling and distributing the poppies just to have the money stolen."

Mrs Mangold added: "We are very upset we have lost money given for a good cause. If anyone has any information please let us know at the station."

The theft has been reported to the British Transport Police and staff will continue to take donations for the appeal until a new collection tin arrives.

The Poppy Appeal is the Royal British Legion's biggest fundraising event of the year.

Members of the public are encouraged to wear the paper poppies on their chest as a symbol of remembrance.

A spokesman for Southeastern, which manages the station, said: “This money was being raised for a very good cause and we would urge anyone with any information to please contact the British Transport Police.”

Anyone with any information can call 101 or alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.